Citizenship by Investment in Antigua: Requirements, Benefits & Costs

Antigua and Barbuda, a twin-island nation in the Eastern Caribbean, offers one of the most attractive Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs in the world. With visa-free access to over 150 countries, no personal income tax, and a relatively fast processing time, the Antigua and Barbuda CBI program is ideal for high-net-worth individuals seeking greater global mobility, asset protection, and a Plan B.

This guide outlines everything you need to know about acquiring Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment — including eligibility requirements, investment options, benefits, and costs in 2025.

Why Consider Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship?

Antigua and Barbuda is not just a beautiful Caribbean destination; it also offers a robust legal framework for economic citizenship, which is recognized under its national laws and the Citizenship by Investment Act, 2013. Some key advantages include:

• Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 150 countries, including the UK, Schengen Area, Singapore, and Hong Kong

• No personal income tax, wealth tax, or capital gains tax

• Dual citizenship allowed, with no requirement to renounce current nationality

• Fast processing time (usually within 4–6 months)

• Family-friendly program — spouse, dependent children, parents, and siblings can be included

• Strong privacy protections, with no requirement to reside in the country permanently

• Favorable location for asset diversification and business expansion in the Caribbean

Who Is Eligible?

To apply for Antigua and Barbuda citizenship by investment, the main applicant must:

• Be at least 18 years old

• Have a clean criminal record

• Pass a due diligence background check

• Provide proof of legal source of funds

• Be in good health

• Be willing to invest in one of the approved options

Applicants must also spend at least five days in Antigua and Barbuda within the first five years of obtaining citizenship, unless applying under the University of the West Indies (UWI) option, which waives the residency requirement.

Investment Options for Citizenship

As of 2025, Antigua and Barbuda offers four primary investment routes to citizenship:

1. National Development Fund (NDF) Donation

A one-time, non-refundable contribution to the government’s National Development Fund.

• Minimum Investment:

  • $100,000 for a family of up to 4

  • $125,000 for a family of 5 or more

• Processing Fee:

  • $30,000 for a family of up to 4

  • $15,000 for each additional dependent

• Ideal for: Applicants seeking the most affordable route without ownership responsibilities

2. Real Estate Investment

Invest in government-approved real estate projects, such as resorts, hotels, or villas.

• Minimum Investment:

  • $200,000 (held for at least 5 years)

• Processing Fee:

  • $30,000 for a family of up to 4

  • $15,000 for each additional dependent

• Ideal for: Investors looking for asset-backed options or vacation property use

3. Business Investment

Invest in a pre-approved business venture in Antigua and Barbuda.

• Minimum Investment:

  • $1.5 million for a sole investor

  • $5 million for a joint investment (minimum $400,000 per investor)

• Processing Fee: Same as above

• Ideal for: Entrepreneurs interested in Caribbean business opportunities

4. University of the West Indies (UWI) Fund Donation

A special donation option available for large families of six or more.

• Minimum Investment:

  • $150,000 (inclusive of processing fees for up to 6 people)

  • $15,000 for each additional dependent

• Bonus: One family member receives a one-year tuition-only scholarship to the UWI

• Ideal for: Larger families seeking value-added benefits

Step-by-Step Process to Apply

1. Hire a Licensed Agent

All applications must be submitted through a government-authorized agent. Direct submissions to the government are not allowed.

2. Choose Investment Option and Gather Documents

Select the most suitable investment path and begin collecting necessary documentation. These typically include:

• Valid passport(s)

• Birth certificates

• Police clearance certificates

• Medical examination reports

• Proof of address and occupation

• Bank statements and source of funds documentation

3. Submit Application and Pay Due Diligence Fees

Your agent will submit your application along with non-refundable due diligence and processing fees:

• Main applicant: $7,500

• Spouse: $7,500

• Dependents over 18: $4,000 each

• Dependents under 18: No fee

4. Background Check and Government Review

The Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) will conduct a detailed background check. If successful, you’ll receive a letter of approval-in-principle within 60–90 days.

5. Make the Investment

After receiving approval, you must complete the investment (donation, property purchase, or business investment) within 30 days.

6. Receive Citizenship Certificate and Passport

Upon confirmation of the investment, your certificate of registration is issued. You can then apply for your Antiguan passport, typically delivered within 2–3 weeks.

Timeline to Citizenship

Total Costs (Sample for a Family of 4 – NDF Option)

Note: Costs vary depending on family size, legal firm, and optional services like expedited processing.

Key Benefits of Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship

• Global Mobility: Travel freely to the UK, Schengen Zone, Hong Kong, Singapore, and more

• No Residency Requirement: Only 5 days in 5 years (waived in some cases)

• Favorable Tax Regime: No income, inheritance, or wealth tax

• Family Inclusion: Include spouse, children (up to age 30), parents/grandparents (55+), and unmarried siblings

• Second Passport: Secure a second nationality for business continuity and geopolitical safety

• Straightforward Inheritance: Citizenship can be passed to future generations

• Commonwealth Country: Benefit from international relations and support from other Commonwealth nations

Things to Consider

• Renewal Required: Passports are valid for 5 years initially and can be renewed if compliance is maintained

• No Schengen Work Rights: While you can visit Schengen countries visa-free, you cannot work or live there unless through separate visas

• Proper Tax Planning Required: While Antigua has no income tax, applicants should consider tax implications in their home country

• Only Licensed Agents Can Apply: Work only with authorized agents listed by Antigua’s CIU to avoid fraud

Final Thoughts

Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment Program continues to be one of the most flexible and family-friendly options in 2025. With affordable entry points, quick processing, and attractive global travel benefits, it appeals to both individuals seeking mobility and families planning for long-term security.

Whether you are diversifying your citizenship portfolio, planning for global freedom, or looking for a tropical home base with real economic potential, Antigua and Barbuda offers a path that is both legally sound and financially strategic.